Brooks Orpik signs five-year, $27.5 million contract with Capitals

Brooks Orpik has signed with the Washington Capitals on the first day of NHL free agency. The team announced the five-year, $27.5 million deal with the long

Brooks Orpik has signed with the Washington Capitals on the first day of NHL free agency.

The team announced the five-year, $27.5 million deal with the long time Pittsburgh Penguins defensemen on Tuesday afternoon, with general manager Brian MacLellan saying he hopes the 33-year old will be an integral part of their defense for a long time.

“We feel Brooks’ leadership and experience will greatly enhance our defense for years to come. Brooks plays tough minutes against the opposition's best players.”

MUIR: NHL Free Agency Season 2014

Orpik has spent his entire career with the Penguins up to this point, and holds the team record for most games played by a defenseman with 703.

-Brendan Maloy